What do Roof Rats Eat?

Roof rats will eat almost anything to stay alive! However when they have a choice, they prefer a diet similar to squirrels. They will eat as they move and seek other resources so the more traps you set, and the less roof rat food available, the better your chances of eliminating roof rats will be.

Roof rats prefer to eat fresh fruit, vegetables, seeds, and nuts.

When roof rats have a choice, they prefer a diet similar to squirrels. Roof rat food includes but is not limited to the following:

Nuts

Seeds

Eggs

Meat

Berries

Fruit

Citrus trees are a roof rat’s favorite food.

Roof rats become more abundant during the months of November through May. The cooler weather and producing fruit trees attract them in great numbers. Unsurprisingly, these rats are not picky. They will eat both unripe or rotten fruit just the same as fruit that’s in its prime. Some fruit trees and excellent roof rat food common to Arizona include:

Lemon

Lime

Orange

Grapefruit

Apple

Peach

Plum

Apricot

Fig

Pomegranate

Water is just as important as food.

Roof rats mainly eat fruit for its water content. Other water sources for roof rats include:

Your dog’s water bowl is a prime water source

A leaky hose bib is watering more than just the ground – get it fixed!

Your irrigation system may be on too long, causing pools of water

Bird feeders and fountains can also be a source for roof rats

Air conditioner condensation and/or drip line

Plant saucers under potted plants

Roof rats eat household items? Yes, don’t think twice…

You may unknowingly be feeding roof rats. They will eat many common household items in addition to actual food. Such as: